This sweet cinnamon bread is a perfect combination of soft, fluffy texture and a rich, aromatic cinnamon sugar topping, making it ideal for cozy breakfasts, brunches, or even as a homemade gift for friends and family. To make this delicious bread, you will need 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon each of baking powder and baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, 2 large eggs, 1 cup of whole milk or buttermilk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, along with 2 tablespoons of melted butter, ¼ cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon for the topping.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon, whisking thoroughly, while in another bowl, mix the melted butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently just until incorporated, being careful not to overmix to maintain a light, airy texture.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smooth the top, and bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, covering loosely with foil if the bread begins to brown too quickly. While still warm, brush the top with melted butter and generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture for a sweet, crunchy finish.
Let the bread cool slightly in the pan before transferring to a wire rack and slicing. This timeless cinnamon bread fills the kitchen with a comforting aroma, creates a golden, inviting crust, and produces soft, flavorful slices that everyone will love, making it a perfect choice for weekend breakfasts, holiday gatherings, or any occasion where a warm, sweet treat is appreciated.